The Los Angeles Dodgers have made a significant move by re-signing Evan Phillips, a key piece of their bullpen puzzle. Phillips, who inked a one-year, $6.5 million deal, returns to the team after a brief stint as a free agent. The Dodgers had initially non-tendered him to free up a roster spot, but there was always an intention to bring him back into the fold.
Phillips, a right-handed pitcher, found himself navigating the waters of free agency for the first time. This opened doors to conversations with multiple teams, all eager to assess his status and potential. Reflecting on the experience, Phillips expressed the intrigue and value he felt from other clubs, highlighting the unique position of being a sought-after talent.
“It was different,” Phillips shared about his free agency journey. He appreciated the interest from various teams, which allowed him to evaluate his options and ultimately decide what was best for his career. Despite the allure of other offers, Phillips chose to return to the Dodgers, where he feels confident about making a significant impact once again.
Phillips is focused on reclaiming his role as a dominant reliever, especially after undergoing Tommy John surgery. He’s optimistic about his recovery and eager to contribute to the Dodgers' success. “I have all the confidence in the world with a new elbow,” he remarked, underscoring his readiness for a fresh start and a longer career runway.
Since joining the Dodgers in 2021, Phillips has been a reliable force when healthy. His stats speak volumes: a 2.22 ERA, 0.94 WHIP, and 10.2 strikeouts per nine innings over 201 games. These numbers highlight his ability to be one of the National League's most effective relievers.
However, Phillips' journey hasn’t been without hurdles. A shoulder issue sidelined him in 2025, and subsequent forearm discomfort led to season-ending surgery. Despite these setbacks, Phillips remains a pivotal part of the Dodgers’ bullpen strategy.
Looking ahead, Phillips is expected to make his return around July, as he continues to recover from surgery. The typical recovery timeline for Tommy John surgery ranges from 12 to 18 months, but Phillips is determined to come back stronger and ready to bolster the Dodgers' bullpen in the latter half of the season. His return could be a game-changer for a team with championship aspirations.